Rare Shark Attack in Israel Leaves Man Missing – Investigation Underway Near Power Plant

A swimmer is currently missing after an extremely rare shark attack off the coast of northern Israel on Monday. The incident occurred at approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Tel Aviv, near Hadera and specifically on Olga Beach, a popular recreational area. Witnesses reported seeing a man struggling in the water as sharks approached, prompting shouts of alarm and concern.

The attack was observed by individuals on Olga Beach who captured footage of the event on social media, depicting a figure seemingly being pursued by sharks from a distance estimated to be several hundred feet offshore. One witness, Eliya Motai, described the terrifying scene, stating, “I was in the water, I saw blood and there were screams.” He further recounted observing circling sharks during a previous visit to the beach.

Experts believe that the area’s unique environmental conditions are contributing factors to this unusual event. The Orot Rabin power station, the largest in Israel, discharges warm water into the Mediterranean Sea, creating an attractive thermal gradient for marine life. This warm water is also believed to draw fish from a nearby stream, providing a food source for sharks – specifically Dusky and Sanbar sharks – which are known to frequent this location, particularly during the current season. Historically, these shark species have gathered in the vicinity of the power plant.

According to YNet news, this is only the fourth documented shark attack recorded in Israel’s history since the country’s establishment in 1948, and remarkably, none have been fatal. Police immediately responded by closing Olga Beach to the public and initiating a comprehensive search and rescue operation for the missing swimmer. Authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and assess any potential risks to swimmers in the area. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities prioritizing the safe recovery of the missing individual.